Sadeness (part I / Extended Trance Mix) -
Enigma's remains a cornerstone of early 90s electronic music, famously blending religious iconography with secular sensuality. Released in 1990 as a maxi-single, this version expands on the mysterious atmosphere that defined Michael Cretu’s project. Composition & Sound
: It features the breathy, sensual French vocals of Sandra, questioning Marquis de Sade: "Sade dit moi pourquoi l'évangile du mal?" (Sade tell me, why the Gospel of evil?). Critical Reception Sadeness (Part I / Extended Trance Mix)
: Despite the "Trance Mix" title, the track leans heavily into Downtempo and Ambient styles rather than modern high-energy trance. It features a steady 96 BPM beat that is more rhythmic and "pounding" than the radio edit, emphasizing a darker, almost ritualistic energy. Enigma's remains a cornerstone of early 90s electronic
: The mix retains the iconic Gregorian chants (Latin: Procedamus in pace ) and the hypnotic shakuhachi flute. Critical Reception : Despite the "Trance Mix" title,
: At over five minutes, the extended mix allows the atmosphere to "breathe," creating a more immersive experience than the standard radio version.
: Critics often cite it as "absolute perfection" in the Downtempo genre, helping to define the "Enigmatic" sound that influenced artists like Deep Forest and Era. Experience the full atmosphere of this 1990 classic here: Enigma - Sadeness Part I (Extended Trance Mix) House & Trance Classics (collected by SOULFEST) YouTube• 02-Jan-2023 Quick Track Info BPM Genre Electronic, New-age, Trance Release Year Label Virgin Records Enigma - Sadeness Part I (Extended Trance Mix)